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Reid happy to fight for All Whites place

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Reid happy to fight for All Whites place

3News NZ

All Whites Leo Bertos, Winston Read and Tim Brown (Photosport)

All Whites Leo Bertos, Winston Read and Tim Brown (Photosport)

All Whites defender Winston Reid welcomes the tough competition that puts him on notice.

The 18-man New Zealand squad for the soccer friendly against Jamaica in Auckland on Wednesday reunites the World Cup defensive trio of Reid, skipper Ryan Nelsen and Tommy Smith.

Ben Sigmund, who was part of the campaign in South Africa two years ago but didn't get game time, is also included and has been in strong form for the Wellington Phoenix.

"It's always good to have competition for spots," Reid said on Tuesday.

"It's good for New Zealand football. I try always to do my best and see how it goes."

Reid made an immediate impact at the World Cup with his last-gasp goal to rescue a 1-1 draw for the All Whites in their opening match against Slovakia.

After the tournament, he joined West Ham United, but had limited first-team opportunities as the London club battled unsuccessfully to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

This season, under new manager Sam Allardyce, the 23-year-old has been a regular as West Ham make a serious push for quick return to the top tier.

All but one of his 23 appearances in all competitions have been in the starting line-up and he has scored two goals, including a stunning winner against Millwall in the Championship earlier this month.

"Things are going well for me compared with last season," Reid said.

"I'm enjoying my football right now and, once you get a manager that believes in you, I think it helps you in a positive way."

Having played in the Hammers' goalless draw against Crystal Palace on Sunday (NZ time) before making the whirlwind trip back to Auckland, he admitted he was feeling pretty tired.

However, he wanted to be back in the All Whites camp and play in front of a New Zealand crowd again.

NZN

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Comments

28/02/2012 8:59:13 a.m.

Shmick wrote:

That is because Rory is on rubbish form for Arbdeen, not starting any games, Any thoughts on team for Wednesday? I think a 4-4-2 could do it Paston Smith, Reid, Nelson ,Lockhead Rojas, Brown, MCGLINCHEY, Brockie Wood,Smelts

28/02/2012 6:43:09 a.m.

Siena wrote:

Kiaora. Competing for a spot for one's own professional club's first team and international team as well, no doubt is physically demanding and mentally draining, at the highest level in football. Though being selected to represent one's country is a privilege and one should be proud and also humbled to be chosen, my personal opinion on the selection of professional players especially when 'friendlies' occur at a crucial time in a professional players' own league...injuries can occur to their top players and much to the detriment of their club owners' who after all carry the biggest risk, financially speaking. When it comes to professional club vs country, I am a staunch supporter of the former - my employer would come first - they are my 'bread and butter' not my country. This is my opinion and I am aware that many would disagree and they are entitled to, just as I am entitled to mine. All that being said, all the best to the All Whites and I am still sour that Rory was not selected!